Dealing with Loss During the Holidays

The Solace Tree Shares Tips for

Dealing with Loss During the Holidays

 Reno, NV (November 19, 2012) – The holiday season can be especially difficult for individuals and families who are grieving the loss of a loved one. “There is no right or wrong way to grieve,” shares Emilio Parga, Executive Director of the solace Tree. “Some have said that not having their loved one with them during the holidays has intensified their pain, others have talked about the joy that has been experienced through continuing traditions that were special to the loved one that they have lost.”

During a recent visit to the Solace Tree, children and teens, along with their parents, shared some guidelines that have made it easier to get through the holidays without their loved one. These are only suggestions, and may or may not be appropriate for your distinguishing circumstance.

  • Talk about your grief as a family and don’t be afraid to talk about the person who has died. Share your thoughts, feelings and memories with people you trust.
  • Invite children in the family to help make choices or decisions about what to do or not to do during the upcoming holidays.
  • Be prepared for all types of reactions. Each individual grieves at their own pace.
  • Children and adolescents need time to grieve. Allow them space, either alone or with support.
  • Keep the spirit alive for young children. It will play a role in
    their future beliefs about the holiday season.
  • Do things that are simple such as only decorating one room instead of the whole house.
  • Shop online or through catalogs for gifts.
  • Be honest with your feelings. Try keeping a journal. Write a letter to your loved one.
  • If faith is important to you then find comfort in your community.
  • Take care of yourself during this time. Be patient, gentle and kind with yourself and your children.

The holidays can be a transitional period for the family that has experienced the loss of a loved one. It is a significant time of the year that holds many memories of times gone by. These times will always be meaningful and so will the holidays, although they will be different now. “Try to live each moment of life in the present, it is the only existence we all share,” says Parga. “Make these holidays your special times.”

The Solace Tree, Inc. a 501c (3) non-profit based in Reno, NV. The Solace Tree mission is to provide peer support, information and education to schools and the community to promote healing and recovery for grieving children, teens and their families who are affected by loss. For more information, visit www.solacetree.org.

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